I have a Robin Hood of indeterminate vintage, probably from the early 1970s. My father-in-law gave it to me. This is a Lenton Sport, five cogs out back, two chainrings (instead of the more common Sturmey-Archer three-speed).

In very good shape. He did not ride it that often, kept it maintained and garaged, etc., and never abused anything he owned.

Earlier this year I broke down everything on the bike and regreased every set of bearings — even those in the rear derailleur.

Worked great! Very smooth, especially the derailleurs, which suprised me. I would have thought these French (I think) old pieces would have been junk. Not so -- very well made, sturdy, durable ... just not modern-day light.

I used the Robin Hood as is for months as a utility bike (after putting on some Wald baskets), but last week made some big changes. Just wanted to try something new.

So, I ....

Replaced the original 27-inch wheels -- front and rear.

Installed a Shimano Alfine hub and shifters.

Took of the Huret derailleurs and the cogset.

Took off the Huret downtube shifters.

Replaced the brake levers.

Replaced the brake pads (these were John Bull pads — could they have been more British? Pads were still in good shape.)

Replaced the stem — why? Because I also ...

Replaced the handlebar — why? To make room for the Alfine shifter.

I also replaced the Wald baskets with a new set of Walds that better accommodate grocery store bags loaded with goodies.

Now running 700c tires (Michelin City tires, 32mm, with reflective sidewalls).

This thing is great! That Alfine hub is smooth and easy to shift. Baskets collapse when not in use, fold out easily to hold grocery bags, and these baskets are lighter than the other Walds.

So, pretty happy with what I ended up with, and plan to put a lot of miles on this puppy running errands. Trying to do more miles on the bike this year than I put on the truck.

But ... now I've got some Robin Hood leftovers.

Anyone interested? Send me a message.